As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord ...

As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7 …do not boast over the branches. If you do boast, remember that it is not you that support the root, but the root that supports you.

Romans 11:18

The image of a root is an effective metaphor that is used frequently in both the Old and New Testaments. In a positive light, it often refers to the depth of God’s love or righteousness. In other cases, it describes the cause of a regrettably unfruitful outcome. Whether evoked by the prophets, the apostles, or Jesus himself, a warning against being ‘uprooted’ or having shallow roots is a matter of grave concern.

The common theme of the Bible is that no one grows without roots; not deep, or tall, or strong. At some point in our spiritual adolescence, we might be able to convince ourselves that our roots are holding us down or keeping us from moving forward. In reality, however, the exact opposite is true. Becoming untethered is not a sign of freedom.

Then again, remaining connected without bearing fruit is no more acceptable. To settle for such a stale existence would be a far cry from the life of abundance to which Jesus calls us. As John the Baptist cautioned those in danger of complacency, “even now the ax is lying at the root of the tree…” (Mt. 3:10)

The ancient church was founded on basic biblical teachings and practices like the Ten Commandments, baptism, the Apostles’ Creed, The Lord’s Supper, the Lord’s Prayers and corporate worship. These basics of the Christian life have sustained and nurtured every generation of the faithful. They apply equally to old and young, men and women, pastors and church members.

Here at Fairhope UMC, we believe that we need the wisdom of the communion of saints. They broaden our perspective beyond our current culture and time. Thus we are excited to begin a new series of preaching and teaching in which we will be ‘digging in’ to two particular roots of the faith—the Apostle’s Creed and the Lord’s Prayer.

Our hope in this offering is plain, but nonetheless profound.

Keep us grounded, Lord!

Darren

WORSHIP SCHEDULE Traditional (The Apostle’s Creed) World Communion Sunday, October 3 “The Life Everlasting” (John 10:10, 11:21-27) Rev. McClellan Gathering (The Lord’s Prayer) World Communion Sunday, October 3 “The Power and the Glory” Rev. Christie

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost The Gathering: September 26, 2021

OPENING SONG Beautiful One Shea White, Praise Team

CALL TO WORSHIP As we gather today, we call you Our Father, who art in Heaven, As we gather today, we lift up who you are and what you represent hallowed be your name As we gather today, We seek your ways, not our own Your Kingdom come, your will be done… As we gather today, we say sorry to you and one another Forgive us as we forgive… As we gather today, we need you. Give us this day our daily bread, Lead us away from temptation, Deliver us from Evil. As we gather today, to worship you.

OPENING PRAYER Father in heaven, in your goodness you pour out on your people all that they need, and satisfy those who persist in prayer. Make us bold in asking, thankful in receiving, tireless in seeking, and joyful in finding, that we may always proclaim your coming kingdom and do your will on earth as in heaven. Amen.

SINGING OUR PRAISES Graves Into Gardens I Am Not Alone

CELEBRATION OF MINISTRY

OFFERING Goodness of God (Special by Alivia Dowden)

Children 4 years-2nd grade can meet at the side doors for Children’s Church. They are to be picked up immediately following the service in the CLC Fellowship Hall.

Nursery is also available for children 4 years and younger in the Education Building.

PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION

Gracious God, as we turn to your Word for us, may the Spirit of God rest upon us. Help us to be steadfast in our hearing, in our speaking, in our believing, and in our living. Amen.

SCRIPTURE LESSON Matthew 4:1-11

SERMON “Deliver Us From Evil” Rev. Ontonio Christie

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

THE LORD’S PRAYER

SENDING FORTH

CLOSING SONG

Assisting in Worship Today: Rev. Ontonio Christie Acolyte: Mary Stella Henderson

Music: Shea White and Praise Band Media and Sound: Robert Hammon, Jamie Waldhour, Amelia Koser

We love knowing you were here today. Thank you for choosing to worship with Fairhope UMC! If you are a member, regular attender or a visitor, scan this QR code and register your attendance for today.

Prayers for the People Medical personnel and first responders

Sympathies: Jerry and Betty Bruce in the death of his cousin, Tillery Cynthia. Family and friends of Clarice Gustin. Family and friends of Joan Hoffacker. Allen Hiles in the death of his wife, Sharon Hiles.

Here is a brief summary of our current stewardship:

Offering Received September 19, 2021 – $28,691 (Online - $12,535 ~ Mail/Personal delivery - $16,156) For those of you who would like to bring your offering to the church, we have a mail slot located in the door across from the glass doors in the breezeway entrance of the education building. Thank you so much for your continued support to Fairhope United Methodist Church. Jeff White, Business Administrator

SMALL GROUP STUDIES FOR FALL *DETAILED CLASS INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE.

NEW!! BOOK STUDY: DARING GREATLY, BY BRENE BROWN Begins September 22nd, facilitated by Jennifer Galloway. Books will be available for purchase at the first meeting in the CLC Parlor, 6-7:30 pm. No need to pre-register, but more information is available from Jennifer at 251-978-0140. Daytime Bible Study on the book on John Begins September 27nd, facilitated by Dr. Ann Pearson. Everyone is welcome and invited to come with their friends and neighbors to this 4-week study that will take place in Wesley Hall,1:00-2:15 pm. Handouts will be available, so please call the church office at 928-1148 to let us know you are coming.

“PASTOR’S CLASS” UMC 101 All are invited to join Pastor Darren for an interactive Bible study and discussion of the historic theology, beliefs, and mission of the United Methodist Church. Meets in the Fellowship Hall immediately following supper. Wednesdays, 6:10-7:10 pm. Books may be offered but will be optional. No registration necessary.

Please note: Nursery can be provided upon request for children 4 years and under.

As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7 …do not boast over the branches. If you do boast, remember that it is not you that support the root, but the root that supports you.

Romans 11:18

The image of a root is an effective metaphor that is used frequently in both the Old and New Testaments. In a positive light, it often refers to the depth of God’s love or righteousness. In other cases, it describes the cause of a regrettably unfruitful outcome. Whether evoked by the prophets, the apostles, or Jesus himself, a warning against being ‘uprooted’ or having shallow roots is a matter of grave concern.

The common theme of the Bible is that no one grows without roots; not deep, or tall, or strong. At some point in our spiritual adolescence, we might be able to convince ourselves that our roots are holding us down or keeping us from moving forward. In reality, however, the exact opposite is true. Becoming untethered is not a sign of freedom.

Then again, remaining connected without bearing fruit is no more acceptable. To settle for such a stale existence would be a far cry from the life of abundance to which Jesus calls us. As John the Baptist cautioned those in danger of complacency, “even now the ax is lying at the root of the tree…” (Mt. 3:10)

The ancient church was founded on basic biblical teachings and practices like the Ten Commandments, baptism, the Apostles’ Creed, The Lord’s Supper, the Lord’s Prayers and corporate worship. These basics of the Christian life have sustained and nurtured every generation of the faithful. They apply equally to old and young, men and women, pastors and church members.

Here at Fairhope UMC, we believe that we need the wisdom of the communion of saints. They broaden our perspective beyond our current culture and time. Thus we are excited to begin a new series of preaching and teaching in which we will be ‘digging in’ to two particular roots of the faith—the Apostle’s Creed and the Lord’s Prayer.

Our hope in this offering is plain, but nonetheless profound.

Keep us grounded, Lord!

Darren

WORSHIP SCHEDULE Traditional (The Apostle’s Creed) World Communion Sunday, October 3 “The Life Everlasting” (John 10:10, 11:21-27) Rev. McClellan Gathering (The Lord’s Prayer) World Communion Sunday, October 3 “The Power and the Glory” Rev. Christie

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost September 26, 2021

PRELUDE Trio Krebs

WELCOME AND MINISTRY HIGHLIGHTS

CALL TO WORSHIP Like people long in exile, we look to God for hope. Your word, O God, is not empty; it is full and accomplishes your purpose. We open the treasure of our heart, asking God to fill us. Your word, O God, is not empty; it is full and accomplishes your purpose. In the mystery of life and death, we listen attentively. Your word, O God, is not empty; it is full and accomplishes your purpose.

PRAYER OF THE DAY Spirit of God, ever-present companion, may your constant presence ignite in us a carefree courage that we may boldly take part in your kingdom. Amen.

*HYMN OF PRAISE #303 The Day of Resurrection

THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM (8:30)

Hugh Trout Chason Son of Will and Sable Chason

RECEIVING NEW MEMBERS ~ Will and Sable Chason, Allan and Nancy Chason

*THE APOSTLES’ CREED

*GLORIA PATRI

OFFERING Thine is the Glory arr. McDonald *DOXOLOGY

11:00 CHILDREN’S MOMENT Children 4 years-2nd grade can meet at the side doors for Children’s Church.

They are to be picked up immediately following the service in the CLC Fellowship Hall. Nursery is also available for children 4 years and younger in the Education Building.

*PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Almighty God, by the power of your Holy Spirit, speak to us in the language of our hearts, that we may hear your Word with understanding and answer your call with confidence. Amen.

FIRST READING I Corinthians 15:1, 12-14, 35, 51-57

HYMN OF PREPARATION #707 Hymn of Promise

SECOND READING Romans 6:1-11

SERMON “I Believe in the Resurrection of the Body” Dr. Darren M. McClellan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

THE LORD’S PRAYER

CLOSING HYMN #610 We Know That Christ Is Raised

SENDING FORTH

POSTLUDE Allegro Kittel

The flowers on the altar are given by Cheri and Jerry Forte in loving memory of Cheri’s mom, Rose Vredevelt, on the anniversary of her Birthday.

Assisting in Worship Today: Dr. Darren M. McClellan, Rev. Ontonio Christie

8:30 Acolyte: Judd Determann Crucifier: Elliot Determann 11:00 Acolyte: Hackett Robertson

Music: Tom Hood, John Richardson, FUMC Choir Media and Sound: Robert Hammon, Ann Lyles Tapscott, Peyton Phillips

We love knowing you were here today. Thank you for choosing to worship with Fairhope UMC! If you are a member, regular attender or a visitor, scan this QR code and register your attendance for today.

Prayers for the People Medical personnel and first responders

Sympathies: Jerry and Betty Bruce in the death of his cousin, Tillery Cynthia. Family and friends of Clarice Gustin. Family and friends of Joan Hoffacker. Allen Hiles in the death of his wife, Sharon Hiles.

Here is a brief summary of our current stewardship:

Offering Received September 19, 2021 – $28,691 (Online - $12,535 ~ Mail/Personal delivery - $16,156) For those of you who would like to bring your offering to the church, we have a mail slot located in the door across from the glass doors in the breezeway entrance of the education building. Thank you so much for your continued support to Fairhope United Methodist Church. Jeff White, Business Administrator

SMALL GROUP STUDIES FOR FALL *DETAILED CLASS INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE.

NEW!! BOOK STUDY: DARING GREATLY, BY BRENE BROWN Begins September 22nd, facilitated by Jennifer Galloway. Books will be available for purchase at the first meeting in the CLC Parlor, 6-7:30 pm. No need to pre-register, but more information is available from Jennifer at 251-978-0140. Daytime Bible Study on the book on John Begins September 27nd, facilitated by Dr. Ann Pearson. Everyone is welcome and invited to come with their friends and neighbors to this 4-week study that will take place in Wesley Hall,1:00-2:15 pm. Handouts will be available, so please call the church office at 928-1148 to let us know you are coming.

“PASTOR’S CLASS” UMC 101 All are invited to join Pastor Darren for an interactive Bible study and discussion of the historic theology, beliefs, and mission of the United Methodist Church. Meets in the Fellowship Hall immediately following supper. Wednesdays, 6:10-7:10 pm. Books may be offered but will be optional. No registration necessary.

Please note: Nursery can be provided upon request for children 4 years and under.

September 26, 2021

As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7 …do not boast over the branches. If you do boast, remember that it is not you that support the root, but the root that supports you.

Romans 11:18

The image of a root is an effective metaphor that is used frequently in both the Old and New Testaments. In a positive light, it often refers to the depth of God’s love or righteousness. In other cases, it describes the cause of a regrettably unfruitful outcome. Whether evoked by the prophets, the apostles, or Jesus himself, a warning against being ‘uprooted’ or having shallow roots is a matter of grave concern.

The common theme of the Bible is that no one grows without roots; not deep, or tall, or strong. At some point in our spiritual adolescence, we might be able to convince ourselves that our roots are holding us down or keeping us from moving forward. In reality, however, the exact opposite is true. Becoming untethered is not a sign of freedom.

Then again, remaining connected without bearing fruit is no more acceptable. To settle for such a stale existence would be a far cry from the life of abundance to which Jesus calls us. As John the Baptist cautioned those in danger of complacency, “even now the ax is lying at the root of the tree…” (Mt. 3:10)

The ancient church was founded on basic biblical teachings and practices like the Ten Commandments, baptism, the Apostles’ Creed, The Lord’s Supper, the Lord’s Prayers and corporate worship. These basics of the Christian life have sustained and nurtured every generation of the faithful. They apply equally to old and young, men and women, pastors and church members.

Here at Fairhope UMC, we believe that we need the wisdom of the communion of saints. They broaden our perspective beyond our current culture and time. Thus we are excited to begin a new series of preaching and teaching in which we will be ‘digging in’ to two particular roots of the faith—the Apostle’s Creed and the Lord’s Prayer.

Our hope in this offering is plain, but nonetheless profound.

Keep us grounded, Lord!

Darren

WORSHIP SCHEDULE Traditional (The Apostle’s Creed) World Communion Sunday, October 3 “The Life Everlasting” (John 10:10, 11:21-27) Rev. McClellan Gathering (The Lord’s Prayer) World Communion Sunday, October 3 “The Power and the Glory” Rev. Christie

SMALL GROUP STUDIES FOR FALL *DETAILED CLASS INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE.

NEW!! BOOK STUDY: DARING GREATLY, BY BRENE BROWN Begins September 22nd, facilitated by Jennifer Galloway. Books will be available for purchase at the first meeting in the CLC Parlor, 6-7:30 pm. No need to pre-register, but more information is available from Jennifer at 251-978-0140. Daytime Bible Study on the book on John Begins September 27nd, facilitated by Dr. Ann Pearson. Everyone is welcome and invited to come with their friends and neighbors to this 4-week study that will take place in Wesley Hall, 1:00-2:15 pm. Handouts will be available, so please call the church office at 928-1148 to let us know you are coming.

“PASTOR’S CLASS” UMC 101 All are invited to join Pastor Darren for an interactive Bible study and discussion of the historic theology, beliefs, and mission of the United Methodist Church. Meets in the Fellowship Hall immediately following supper. Wednesdays, 6:10-7:10 pm. Books may be offered but will be optional. No registration necessary.

Please note: Nursery can be provided upon request for children 4 years and under.

Caring Ministries…

Bible Study… John Bible Study begins tomorrow, Monday, September 27th. This drop-in class is facilitated by Dr. Ann Pearson and will be in Wesley Hall from 1:00 to 2:15 pm. Everyone is invited so come and be a part of this study.

Our next delivery will be Wed. September 29. Snacks or monetary donations will continue to be accepted. If you have time to come and pick and stick labels for the snacks contact Martha in the church office 251-928-1148. This has been a great opportunity to give thanks for this past year of dedicated service for our healthcare workers. The hospital staff has been so touched by your ongoing support and love.

Support Ministry Groups…

Grief Group meets every Monday from 3:00 to 4:00 pm in B-114. Suzanne Glass and Dr. Ann Pearson facilitate this group.

Survivors of Suicide (SOS) meets Monday, September 27 at 6:30 pm in Wesley Hall. Contact Dr. Ann Pearson for your zoom invite.

Tough Dogs Cancer Support Group meets Tuesday, Sept. 28 at 12:30 pm in the Church Library. A zoom option is available by contacting Dr. Ann Pearson, [email protected].

Stephen Ministers support Hurricane Ida evacuees… Stephen Ministers went to Central Presbyterian Church in Mobile. They were able to offer support and prayer to Hurricane Ida evacuees. In the picture on the right, two Louisiana residents offered comfort to one another. Below are the Stephen Ministers who served.

Online registration remains open for the following Wednesday night programs – the link is provided below! If you have an interest in serving in one of these programs, please contact Jenna Hood, Director of Children’s Ministries at 928-1148. As always, you do not need to have a child in children’s ministries to serve! Children’s Choir: K-6th grade | Wednesdays, 4:15-5:00pm | *Wesley Hall (Ed Bldg, 1st floor)

* Children enjoy learning different kinds of worship music which will be sung in various Sunday services. Their first time singing in a service will be Sunday, October 3 during The Gathering at 11:00am in the CLC. They will sing The Lord’s Prayer.

* Note the change in location

* New friends always welcome! Pre-registration is greatly appreciated.

SWIFT: 5th & 6th grade | Wednesdays, 6:00-7:30pm | Attic (CLC, 2nd floor)

* Students will learn and know how it feels to own their faith. Each week they grapple with a specific question about faith, relationships and choices and search God’s Word for answers. This group engages in large and small group discussions, mission projects, free-play in the gym and social get-togethers!

* New friends always welcome! Pre-registration is greatly appreciated.

EXCITING NEWS TO BE ANNOUNCED NEXT WEEK ABOUT OUR PIER & PIER34 PROGRAMS!!!

Pier: K-2nd grade | Wednesdays, 6:00-7:15pm

* Begins Wednesday, October 13

* Pre-registration is greatly appreciated.

* In need of additional adult volunteers!

Pier34: 3rd & 4th grade | Wednesdays, 6:00-7:15pm

* Begins Wednesday, October 13

* Pre-registration is greatly appreciated.

* In need of additional adult volunteers!

Click now to register …

https://www.fairhopeumc.org/wednesdayprograms/

UPWARD BASKETBALL FOR YOUTH Registration is now open for all boys and girls, 4 yrs. old – 4th grade. K4-5 and 3-4 grade, Teams will be coed. Register online at https://registration.upward.org/UPW81095 or use your camera to open the QR Code. Registration is $95. Deadline to register is October 28. First Practice- Monday, November 1. First Game- Monday, November 29.

Student Ministries…

Youth Dodgeball Tournament September 26, 6:30pm//CLC

7th-12th grade Come join us to cheer on the teams or grab some people and jump in on the action this Sunday night! Check SALT Students Instagram account for more details. There will be prizes for the winners, dinner and karaoke for everyone else. See you this weekend!

Sunday Night Youth//6:30-8:00pm (October 3, 17, 24, 31) *No Youth Oct 10)

7th-12th grade

Sunday Night Youth takes place almost every week and includes: worship, games, free time in the gym, dinner and so much more. We provide an opportunity for every student in grades 7-12 to worship together with one another and we give them space to build relationships. We can't wait to see you there! There's no need to register and you can always bring a friend. We hope to see YOU this Sunday night! Parents, if you'd like to know more about what youth series we are studying. Simply download the PARENT CUE and read the email updates that are sent out at the beginning of every new series. We provide discussion starters and new ideas on how to continue the conversation and growth at home.

Wednesday Nights//6:30-7:45pm

7th-12th grade

Community Groups are for students in grades 7-12. We provide an opportunity for every person committed to attending C-Groups to grow deeper in their faith with a community of believers their own age to support & pray with them. Every C-Group will have 2 adult leaders committed to walking their faith journey with them. Our C-Groups launch on Wednesday, September 1st @ 6:30-7:45pm. The 10-12 grade C-Groups will meet off campus every Wednesday in a host home with their adult small group leaders. The 7-9 grade C-Groups will meet on-campus upstairs in the CLC. Sign-up is now open for the 2021-22 school year.

The new school year is ahead and it's time to get plugged-in! Parents, did you know that you and your students can stay connected and hear about ALL the activities in student ministry as they're first announced? If you are on social media, follow us:

Instagram: @fairhopeumc.youth

Facebook: @fhsaltstudents

Text Message Reminders: Text the word “Saltstudents" to the number “43506”

SAVE THE DATE:

DISCOVERY WEEKEND 2022

FEB 11-13, 2022

Discovery is a 43-hour spiritual retreat designed for Middle School students held on our church campus and led by High School students and Adult Mentors. Registration for 7th-8th grade participants & 9th-12th grade High School leadership will open on October 1! Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details. If you'd like to help in an adult leadership role, please contact our DW Directors, Larry or Megan Smith.